Use of Bone Biopsy to Better Understand the Causes of Decreased Bone Mineral Density in Depression (NCT00001916) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Use of Bone Biopsy to Better Understand the Causes of Decreased Bone Mineral Density in Depression
United States17 participantsStarted 1999-03
Plain-language summary
In this study researchers would like to learn more about the low levels of bone mineral density seen in approximately half of women in their forties diagnosed as currently having or previously had depression.
Bones are always undergoing a process of building (formation) and breakdown (resorption). This process is referred to as bone remodeling. When more bone is formed than resorbed, the density (level of calcium) in bone increases and the bones become stronger. However, if more bone is resorbed than formed the density of bone decreases and the bones become weak. This condition is called osteoporosis.
It is unknown if women with depression have decreased bone mineral density as a result of too much breakdown of bone or not enough building. It is important to know the cause of low bone mineral density because it will influence the way a patient is treated. Medications like bisphosphonates are used when there is too much bone breakdown. Growth hormone replacement can be given in cases where there is not enough bone production. Presently, bone biopsy and a procedure known as histomorphometry can determine what processes are going on in bones.
Researchers have decided to use a sample of bone (biopsy) from part of the hip bone (iliac crest). In addition, researchers will collect a sample of bone marrow (the soft tissue found in the center of bones) to tell them more about the biochemical, cellular, and molecular processes that may be contributing to the problem of decreased bone density in depressed premenopausal women.
Who can participate
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Female patients with primary affective disorder (major depression n=17).
Controls must not have psychiatric disorders.
Subjects with past or current depression will be studied if bone mineral density in any site in either hip or spine was assessed by DEXA scan to be equal to or greater than 1 1/2 standard deviation below peak bone density.
Subjects with psychiatric illness can either be drug free or receiving any FDA approved medication for the treatment of depression, with the exception of valproic acid and carbamazepine, which are known to interfere with intestinal calcium absorption (and hence, can influence bone mineral density), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which can interact adversely with fentanyl in the event that it would be given for relief of pain.
During the course of the entire study all subjects must abstain from tobacco and alcohol and will be instructed to inform the physicians conducting the research about their use of prescription or non-prescription medication, including birth control pills.
Must not have any serious medical illnesses.
Must not have current or past, prolonged steroid use.
Must not be pregnant.
Must not be on anticoagulant medication.
Must not be allergic to or have shown adverse reactions to tetracyline, benzodiazepines, fentanyl, or lidocaine.
Must not have used aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents in the past week.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
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Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.